Michigan Schools To Close Early Due To Mayan Apocalypse 'Rumors,' Threats Of Violence

More than 30 Michigan schools have closed two days early for the holiday break, in part, one official says, because of rumors surrounding the belief that the ancient Mayan calendar predicts the end of the world on Friday. Five districts -- covering 33 schools in Lapeer county -- will cancel all classes and extracurriculars until Jan. 7, 2013.

Although the rumors of violence in Michigan "have been thoroughly investigated and determined to be false," Lapeer Superintendent Matt Wandrie writes, the rumors have been a "serious distraction" to students and the community.

"Although we in the county are reluctant to cancel school because the rumors are unsubstantiated, we feel it is the most appropriate decision given the gravity of recent events and our present circumstances," Wandrie wrote in his letter to Lapeer parents.

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Michigan Schools To Close Early Due To Mayan Apocalypse 'Rumors,' Threats Of Violence

The Most Beautiful and Imaginative Public Schools in the World

The Most Beautiful and Imaginative Public Schools in the World

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Kindergarten Kekec by Arhitektura Jure Kotnik -- Ljubljana, Slovenia

An extension of a typical Slovenian prefab kindergarten from the '80s, the colorful, interactive design is a response to the school's lack of play equipment. The addition's three exterior walls are made of "toy slats": natural wooden planks that the kids can play with to "get to know different colors, experience wood as a natural material and constantly change the appearance of their kindergarten, all at the same time."
via <a href="http://www.flavorwire.com/320057/the-most-beautiful-and-imaginative-public-schools-in-the-world?all=1">Flavorwire</a>
Image credit: Miran Kambič via <a href="http://housevariety.blogspot.com/2011/03/kindergarten-kekec-by-arhitektura-jure.html#.UDHC1dDl3nQ">House Variety</a>